At the Clinton vs Weatherford football game, Weatherford’s Principal Garrett Smith was presented a check for Science and Math education at Weatherford High School by the people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas. 

One of the teachers who will benefit from this donation is Leslie Waldrop who teaches Biology and Anatomy & Physiology at Weatherford High. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your hobbies, your passions.

I’m a small-town country girl. I’ve been married to my husband for 15 years and we have three kiddos. I love to bake all the things. I also love to hunt and fish and spend time outdoors. Any extra time I have is usually spent with family!

What classes do you teach?

I teach Biology and Anatomy & Physiology.

Where did you go to college and what led you into teaching?

I went to SWOSU as an allied health sciences major. I then went to OUHSC and attended the  Radiation Therapy program. I also have a master’s in Healthcare Administration from OSU. I worked as a Radiation Therapist at OU Medical Center for 12 years before venturing into the teaching profession. I’ve always loved science and wanted to be able to share that love with others. I want kids to fall in love with science.

Who mentored you into the educator you are today?

I had so many wonderful teachers throughout my schooling. Mrs. Johnson in 5th and 6th. A different Mrs. Johnson in high school. Mrs. Ball and Dr. Wolgamott at SWOSU. My own mom, who has taught for 47 years. Teachers who made learning fun and enjoyable had the most impact on me.

What do you love about teaching?

I love teaching because I feel that I can make a difference. As a teacher I have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my students whether that be educationally or just by being a positive influence. I thrive when I see eyes light up in my students or when they can apply their knowledge to real life applications.

What is great about your current school?

I think the best thing about WHS is the culture. Our teachers pour into the lives of the students daily and want nothing but the best for them. We strive to push them to their greatest abilities and potential. #allhailthedub

Why is teaching Science and Math so important?

Teaching math and science sets our students up for success in whatever they decide to do after high school. Our lives revolve daily around science no matter what is happening. Our world is growing dramatically in the fields of science and technology and I feel students have to be able to grasp it and run with it.